Carnegie/Ontario Intersection Improvements
Improving one of the most highly traveled intersections in northeast Ohio
Attention Commuters: Through the summer of 2013, the Ontario Street ramp to I-90 west/I-71 south is closed. Use E 9th or E 14th Streets to access I-90 west/I-71 south. When the ramp reopens this summer, access will ONLY be to I-90 west. Motorists will NOT be able to access I-71 south until the new bridge is open in the fall.
Work is nearly complete to make improvements at the intersection of Carnegie and Ontario, near Progressive Field. Crews work to complete brickwork and other minor operations. Final landscaping is expected during the 2013 construction season. Lane restrictions on eastbound Carnegie will continue as work takes place on the Tri-C parking deck, across from Progressive Field.
Why Make Improvements?
The intersection of Carnegie and Ontario – which sits adjacent to Progressive Field, home of the Cleveland Indians – is the gateway to downtown Cleveland.
The intersection is one of the most highly traveled and congested in the region.
A total of 153 crashes occurred near the intersection of Carnegie and Ontario between 2008 and 2010. Nearly one-third of these crashes resulted in injuries.
Each day, 40,000 to 60,000 vehicles pass through the intersection.
More than 2,000 of those vehicles are heavy trucks.
The existing interchange is difficult to navigate on foot or bike.
What Upgrades will be made?
Upgrades for Motorists:.jpg)
A second lane will be added to southbound Ontario Street with access to I-90 west and I-71 south. This will allow more vehicles to enter the freeway during peak times.
A new truck route into and out of the Flats (East 9th Extension) is now open to reduce truck traffic at the Carnegie/Ontario intersection.
The existing triangular island on the northwest corner of the intersection has been removed, simplifying the traffic operation.
Upgrades for Cyclists and Pedestrians:
The triangular island will be transformed into a bike and pedestrian friendly promenade.
The crosswalk distance for pedestrians crossing Carnegie Avenue on the west side of the intersection will be reduced by 42 feet – from 125 feet to a proposed 83 feet – making walking a safer, more convenient option.
The existing pedestrian signals will be replaced with “countdown” signal heads to display remaining time to safely cross the street.
Upgrades to Community Spaces:
The yet-to-be-constructed I-90 overpass over Ontario will include “monuments” which will rise slightly above the bridge deck and serve as a welcoming gateway to downtown.
Crews will construct a public overlook adjacent to the Western Reserve Fire Museum and Education Center, providing spectacular views of the Cuyahoga River Valley.
New finishes, including sidewalks, pavers, retaining walls and even public art will adorn the area adjacent to the intersection.
